How to Make a Quilted Journal Cover - Any Size!, by Scrap Fabric Love on YouTube. 13 min 29 s.
- Video length
- 13 min 29 s
- Time to do it
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Measure your journal's height and width, then open it and measure the full span from front cover to back cover. Add seam allowance and a little ease so the cover slides on.
Cut a backing piece and a batting piece to your measured size. Lay them flat with the batting underneath.
Quilt as you go: lay a scrap strip right side up on the backing, then place the next strip on top and sew along the edge. Flip it open, press, and repeat until the panel is covered.
Trim the quilted panel square and check it wraps around your journal with the flaps meeting at the spine.
Cut two fabric flaps and fold and press their edges. Pin them to the short ends of the quilted panel and stitch in place.
Fold a length of ribbon in half and pin the loop to the centre of one flap edge. Stitch it securely so it becomes the closure.
Cut a lining piece the same size as the panel. Place it right sides together with the quilted panel and sew around the edges, leaving a gap for turning.
Turn the cover right side out through the gap, poke out the corners, and press. Slip stitch the gap closed.
Slide the journal into the flaps and tie the ribbon to hold it shut.
Tips and common mistakes
Press each scrap strip after flipping it so the quilting lines stay straight and flat.
Use a walking foot if your machine has one to stop the batting from shifting.
Leave a turning gap of at least 3 inches so the corners turn cleanly.
Keep the ribbon loop short so it does not dangle and fray.
Questions
Can I make this for a softcover book?
Yes. Measure the book the same way and add a little extra ease so the soft cover slides in without bending.
Do I need a quilting foot?
No. A standard presser foot works, but a walking foot helps feed the batting evenly.
How do I stop the raw edges fraying?
The lining encloses the seams, and you can zigzag or overcast the flap edges before assembly.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
